Betis – AS Roma : Preview & Prediction
After coming from behind to win 2-1 in Rome last week, Real Betis are still on a winning streak (G3) in this year’s UEFA Europa League (UEL). If Manuel Pellegrini’s side can once again take all three points on matchday four, they will advance to the knockout stages for the second consecutive season. Given their 100% win record at the Benito Villamarin this season (5/5), the Verdiblanco fans can be confident that their side will seal their passage on Thursday.
Having kept a clean sheet in four of their last six home games (G6), the Sevilla side have not lost any of their three home games against Italian clubs (G2, E1). In fact, Betis have not been defeated in any of their ten UEL group stage matches at home (G6, E4), but will certainly be eager to put on a good show and get back to winning ways after a 0-0 draw with Valladolid in their second consecutive league game without a goal.
Third in Group C (G1, P2), Roma have not had a good start to this UEL and cannot afford to slip up any more. It is the first time the Giallorossi have suffered two defeats at this stage of the competition. Jose Mourinho’s side will have to get a good result at the Verdiblanco fortress, but they will be without Paulo Dybala and Nicolò Zaniolo, among others. Champions of the inaugural edition of the UEFA Europa Conference League, Roma are aiming to reach the UEFA Europa League group stage for the fifth consecutive time.
Ferocious wolf on the road: Roma have 22 away goals in European competition and have won their two most recent league outings, scoring at least one goal before half-time in each. If the Roman club can win at the Benito Villamarin, they will string together three official away wins for the first time since the summer of 2020.
Players to watch: Luiz Henrique has two goals for Betis, both of which have come in their last two UEL matches, including the winning goal at the Olimpico in Rome. Given Roma’s significant absentees, this could be the day for Stephan El Shaarawy to make the difference. The 29-year-old winger scored four goals in European competition last term.
Key stat: four of Roma’s last six official matches have ended 1-1 after the opening 45 minutes, including the most recent clash against Real Betis.
Betis – AS Roma : Betting Tips
Betis – Win Odds: 2.75
